Besides the physical examination, the yearly wellness visit gives you a chance to speak with the doctor about concerns or questions that you may have. It is the perfect opportunity to discuss your pet’s overall health — especially if your pet is being treated for a medical condition. The doctor can bring you up to date on new treatments, tests, or products that may be of benefit to your pet.

The wellness visit is also a good time to:

• Update any necessary vaccinations

• Pick up heartworm preventative

• Refill prescription medication

• Perform routine laboratory tests (fecal parasite analysis or bloodwork)